Germany intensifies infrastructure security after sabotage attempts

German officials are calling for urgent upgrades to the protection of critical infrastructure following a series of sabotage attempts and security breaches. Baden-Württemberg Minister President Cem Özdemir has demanded increased speed in implementing security measures, such as video surveillance and additional fencing, to protect energy facilities like substations. He noted that the country is vulnerable to attacks from various actors, including left-wing radicals and Russian hybrid agents, aimed at causing public insecurity.

Recent incidents include fires at substations in Reutlingen, Brandenburg, and North Rhine-Westphalia, which caused power outages for thousands of households. Additionally, a security breach occurred at Leipzig/Halle Airport involving a drone equipped with explosives and a specialized detonation device. Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt reported that investigators found the drone's technology matched patterns used in previous Russian hybrid operations.

In response to these threats, the German government has initiated countermeasures, including the closure of the Russian House cultural institute in Berlin and the Russian Consulate General in Bonn. Authorities are also considering the creation of a specialized unit to defend against drone attacks at strategic locations like airports and train stations.